2D CAD drafting and drawing

2D CAD software offers limitless possibilities, from crafting a dream treehouse to precise technical drawings. Professionals and beginners alike appreciate its user-friendly, advanced capabilities, available in the AutoCAD products.

What is 2D CAD software?

2D computer-aided design (CAD) software is a digital platform that allows professionals in fields like architecture, engineering, and manufacturing to create precise technical drawings and plans in two dimensions.

AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT are popular 2D CAD software tools that provide a digital platform for crafting detailed floor plans, producing drawings for building permits, and designing mechanical components with precision.

How do professionals use 2D CAD software?

2D CAD is a type of software that helps people create drawings and plans on a computer. It's used in different industries, like architecture and engineering, to create plans for buildings or products. With 2D CAD, you can quickly insert commonly used building parts, like doors or furniture, and easily change the design.

Autodesk offers 2D software applications such as AutoCAD LT that are used for designing and creating products. These software tools provide features that aid in creating accurate 2D drawings, which are faster and more precise than manual drawings.

2D drawing and drafting

With 2D CAD, users can create technical drawings with an array of features, including adjustable line styles, closed shapes, and crosshatching. 2D CAD offers the ability to save settings; annotate drawings; and easily replicate fonts, styles, and color pallets. Its collaborative interface increases efficiency with multiple-component projects, such as product design or illustrations.

2D CAD software makes it easier to take concepts from the drawing/design phase to the drafting phase to flesh out precise dimensions and scale. Architects, engineers, and construction professionals will appreciate the built-in efficiency in AutoCAD, offering features that streamline the drawing process alongside integrated workflows. Users can develop landscaping layoutsfloor plans, and more, as well as view and collaborate on plans across a multitude of devices, including desktop, web, and mobile.

2D CAD drafting and drawing software

AutoCAD
2D and 3D CAD tools, with enhanced insights, AI-automations, and collaboration features. Subscription includes AutoCAD on desktop, web, mobile, and seven specialized toolsets.
AutoCAD LT
Best-in-class tool for 2D CAD drafting, drawing, and documentation. Subscription includes AutoCAD LT on desktop, web, and mobile.
AutoCAD Web
Draft, annotate, and add field data to your drawings online via your web browser or mobile device. Access and edit DWG files, and quickly collaborate with AutoCAD users on designs.

What can you design with 2D CAD software?

Two hands drawing a floor plan on paper with a pen, sticky notes, and ruler.

Architectural floor plans

The special arrangement of windows, doors, and interior and exterior spaces is essential to any architectural design project.

Designing a yellow excavator in 3D overlaying 2D drawing.

Technical drawings

From product assembly to engineering layouts, technical drawings are better with the accuracy of 2D CAD software.

Image courtesy of Engineering Center LTD, Russia
Purple sofa and green couch line the chic purple-toned room, books are stacked in front of a fireplace and butterfly specimens adorn the walls.

Interior design

The interplay of color, texture, light, and space can be expertly depicted in 2D CAD software.

Image courtesy of Osama Aly
Sustainable landscape design of planters and benches in a unique space at Pinterest headquarters.

Landscape design

Designing a landscape layout requires notating every detail of plant species and hardscape material.

Image courtesy of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.

See how customers are using 2D CAD software

Dining area of Burnside Cottage kitchen renovation.

AutoCAD LT opens doors for interior designer

An Interior designer highlights her skills with AutoCAD LT to land a new job and creates a competitive advantage for the firm.

Image courtesy of Kelly Tomlinson Photography
Building exterior of Marriott International’s Moxy hotel

Moxy hotel blends fun and design with AutoCAD LT

Discover how Tokyo-based Wise Labo blends fun, inspiration, and AutoCAD LT for the design of the Moxy Hotel in Osaka.

Image courtesy of Marriott International, Inc./Moxy Hotels
Nature’s Designs garden design.

Helping a landscape design business blossom

A landscape designer shares the inspiration to start her own business and how AutoCAD LT helps her succeed with the design process.

Image courtesy of Rose Remillard

Extend your workflow with 2D to 3D CAD software

Bring complex ideas to life by turning 2D drawings into 3D models with integrated software from Autodesk. Streamline digital workflows for design, visualization, and 3D simulation to transform the 2D-to-3D creative process.

2D CAD software frequently asked questions (FAQ)

2D design refers to the creation of two-dimensional visual representations or drawings. In 2D design, objects and elements are typically represented on a flat plane, such as a piece of paper or a computer screen, with width and height dimensions. These designs lack depth, as they do not incorporate the third dimension (depth or thickness) that is present in 3D design.

Download a free 30-day trial of AutoCAD LT or any of the toolsets that are included when you subscribe.

Students and educators can get free one-year educational access to Autodesk products and services, which is renewable as long as you remain eligible. If you are a student or educator, you can access free AutoCAD software with an Autodesk Education plan.

If you're new to CAD and looking for simplicity, begin with AutoCAD LT. Its user-friendly interface and helpful collaboration features make it an excellent starting point. You can easily learn 2D drawing using AutoCAD LT through video tutorials. Start by creating and organizing 2D objects, making modifications, and plotting drawings. Once you're comfortable with 2D, you can build a strong foundation for 3D drawing, gradually expanding your skills.